The new playground at Trailside Park in Pequot Lakes is already popular with children and parents.
BY NANCY VOGT Editor
The north end of Trailside Park along the Paul Bunyan Trail in Pequot Lakes recently got a lot more colorful and attractive to children and their families. A bright blue, red and yellow children’s playground was installed and it’s already proved popular with kids and parents. The park was made possible through a $75,000 donation from Tom and Nancy Adams of Pequot Lakes and their family. The part of the park with playground equipment will be named the Adams Family Playground. “We are delighted to be able to give something back to the city that has become such an important part of our lives,” the Adamses said when they provided the donation. The new playground is step one of a master plan for that part of Trailside Park. Step two is constructing bathroom facilities, which the city is currently working on, and step three will be to add a splash park for children. Trailside Park is also home to a bandstand, where Bands
in the Park play for free from 7-9 p.m. Saturdays through summer. Following is this summer’s schedule: June 20: Muddy Waters, ‘50s and country. June 27: Norm’s Bait & Tackle Choir, humorous. July 4: Decade 7, classic ‘70s rock. July 11: The Lonesome Tradition, bluegrass. July 18: Daybreak, smooth jazz, rock and roll oldies, country. July 25: SOLO, ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s rock and roll. Aug. 1: The Lonesome Tradition, bluegrass. Aug. 8: Muddy Waters, ‘50s and country. Aug. 15: Rockin Hill Band, older rock and roll, pop, blues. Aug. 22: Decade 7, classic ‘70s rock. Aug. 29: Mike Miller & Friends, rock and roll. Dog park Another fairly new attraction in Pequot Lakes is a dog park that was built near the water tower off Pillsbury Avenue, called the BabinskiWilson Dog Park, recognizing Pequot Lakes High School student Sheridan Wilson and the Babinski Foundation
A dog park recently opened in Pequot Lakes, located near the water tower off Pillsbury Avenue. The fenced-in area allows dogs to run and play off their leashes.
PHOTO BY NANCY VOGT
for their efforts to build the park. The fenced in park provides a place for dogs to run and play off their leashes. Diane Cummins of Pequot Lakes said a group of dog owners meets there regularly. She hopes to donate a tree for the park where she brings her rat terrier, Rocket, so he can run and get exercise. Mayo Lake Nature Preserve Another rather new park near Pequot Lakes is a bit more rustic in nature. Mayo Lake Nature Preserve consists of 67 acres of land in Crow Wing and Cass counties that was donated to the city of Pequot Lakes. The land has been conveyed as a perpetual conservation easement to the Minnesota Land Trust. The property consists of many different vegetative cover types, including upland forests and lowland shrub swamps. This park is a nature preserve designed with a walking trail to also be used in the winter for snowshoeing and cross country skiing. T h e p r e s e r ve is three
Rocket, a rat terrier owned by Diane Cummins of Pequot Lakes, fetches a ball at the Pequot Lakes dog park, located near the water tower on Pillsbury Avenue.
PHOTO BY NANCY VOGT
miles south and west of Pequot Lakes with Hurtig Road bordering the property on the east. The property surrounds the southern portion of Mayo Lake. There are trails on the property that are used for recreational activities and management access. Other parks Pequot Lakes is also home to: • Bobber Park, located underneath the city’s historic bobber water tower and across the street from the Cole Memorial Building, features Babe, Paul Bunyan’s Blue Ox, and Paul Bunyan’s lumberjack chair. • Sibley Park, located on Sibley Lake at the intersection of North Oak
PHOTO BY NANCY VOGT
and West Sibley streets. Park amenities include a fishing pier, playground, swings, picnic tables, barbecue grill and a picnic shelter. A boat access is located just north of the park. Plans are to replace the stairs leading down to Sibley Lake, update the playground equipment and provide new lighting in the future. • Gildner Park, located at the corner of South Oak
and Pillsbury streets in a wooded area. Wooden playground equipment, in keeping with the naturalness of the area, is available for young children, and there are benches and picnic tables.
Caleb Schmitz, 3, and his sister, Mallory, 2, have fun on the slide at the new playground in Trailside Park in Pequot Lakes.
PHOTO BY NANCY VOGT
S2
May 28, 2015
Recreation Guide
A B C D E F G H
Long Bow Golf Club 6516 Long Bow Trail Northwest Walker, MN 56484 www.longbowgolfclub.com | (218) 547-4121
Tianna Country Club 7470 Minnesota 34 Walker, MN 56484 www.tianna.com | (218) 547-1712
Golden Eagle Golf Club 16146 West Eagle Lake Road Fifty Lakes, MN 56448 www.golfgoldeneagle.com | (866) 316-4653
Black Bear Golf Course 2677 16th Street Southwest Backus, MN 56435 www.blackbeargolfcomplex.com | (218) 587-8800
Emily Greens Golf Course 39966 Refuge Road Emily, MN 56447 www.emilygreens.com | (218) 763-2169
Minnesota National Golf Course 23247 480th Street McGregor, MN 55760 www.mnnationalgolfcourse.com | (218) 426-4444
Crosswoods Golf Course 35878 County Road 3 Crosslake, MN 56442 www.crosslakegolf.com | (218) 692-4653
Whitefish Golf Course Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 www.whitefishgolf.com (218) 543-4900
I J K L M N O P
Wildwedge Golf 32792 Paul Bunyan Trail Drive Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 www.wildwedge.com | (218) 568-6995
Deacon’s Lodge 9348 Arnold Palmer Drive Breezy Point, MN 56472 (218) 562-6262
Whitebirch Golf Course 9252 Breezy Point Drive Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 www.breezypointresort.com | (218) 562-7178
Traditional 18-Hole Golf Course 9252 Breezy Point Drive Breezy Point, MN 56472 www.breezypointresort.com | (218) 562-7166
The Preserve at Grand View Lodge Preserve Boulevard Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 www.grandviewlodge.com | (866) 801-2951
Grand View Lodge Golf Resort 23521 Nokomis Avenue Nisswa, MN 56468 www.grandviewlodge.com | (866) 801-2951
Cuyuna Rolling Hills Deerwood, MN 56444 www.cuyunarollinghills.com (218) 534-3489
Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge 25039 Tame Fish Lake Road Deerwood, MN 56444 www.ruttgers.com | (218) 678-2885
Q R S T U V W X
Madden’s On Gull Lake 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Brainerd, MN 56401 www.maddens.com | (218) 829-2811
Cragun’s Resort 11000 Craguns Drive Brainerd, MN 56401 www.craguns.com | (800) 272-4867
Cragun’s Legacy Golf Courses 11496 East Gull Lake Drive Brainerd, MN 56401 www.craguns.com | (218) 825-2789
The Classic at Madden’s Golf Course 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Brainerd, MN 56401 www.maddens.com | (218) 829-2811
Pine Ridge Golf Club 34500 Hillcrest Road Motley, MN 56466 www.pineridgegolfclubmn.com | (218) 575-3300
Northwood Hills Golf 18217 Captive Lake Road Garrison, MN 56450 www.golfmillelacs.com | (320) 692-4325
Eagles Landing Golf Club and Grill 14825 263rd Street Fort Ripley, MN 56449 www.eagleslanding-golf.com | (320) 632-5721
Fiddlestix Golf Course 1081 395th Street Isle, MN 56342 www.golffiddlestix.com | (320) 676-3636
2015 Golf Guide Course Map Long Bow Golf Club Tianna Country Club Golden Eagle Golf Club Black Bear Golf Course Emily Greens Golf Course Minnesota National Golf Course Crosswoods Golf Course Whitefish Golf Course Wildwedge Golf, Mini Golf & Maze Deacon's Lodge Whitebirch Golf Course Traditional Eighteen Hole Golf Course The Preserve Golf Course at Grand View Lodge Grand View Lodge Golf Resort & Spa Cuyuna Rolling Hills Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge Madden's On Gull Lake Cragun's Resort
Cragun's Legacy Golf Courses The Classic at Madden's Golf Course
Northwood Hills Golf
Great Golf Across from Beautiful Lake Mille Lacs
Eagles Landing Golf Club and Grill orderly
Let us start by preparing for your round of golf in an fashion. Arrive at the golf course a hour before your tee time to give you the best possible chance at having a great round of golf. You need time to check in at the pro shop, pick up any items you may need for the round, golf balls, tees, get your bag on a cart if you use one, pick up some water at the refreshment counter, meet your friends or guests who you will be playing with, and do some warm up stretching, heading to the driving range to hit about 20 balls, do some chipping, and some putting. During this pre round session make quality shots, have a focused target for each shot and make it important as if you were on the course playing the shot for a score. If you have a hurried drive to the course, running late will result in a frustrated round when you are trying to rush and do not have the time to warm up. Whipping out the driver on #1 after a jog from the car to the pro shop with your friends waiting on the tee is not the ideal way to start a round of golf. By the time you gather yourself and relax enough to enjoy the round my guess is it will be the 18th This would be the ideal way to start your round of golf. First focus your mind on the game today, set aside all the other mental clutter and prepare as you would for an important meeting. Make the time you have to warm up a quality session. A full stretching regime is not realistic before a round, but if you have the luxury to do a more complete warm up at home before you head to the course that is the ideal. Stretching your hamstrings, lower back, sides, trunk and shoulders will result in better range of motion that will generate more club head speed. Now that we have done our stretching, start hitting some balls with your pitching wedge and work you way up to the long irons, and woods, ending with your driver or driving club which may be a 3 wood. Remember have a target on every shot. Never start with the longest club in your bag. Progress to the chipping and putting green. Practice a half-dozen chips with a 9-iron and also with the pitching wedge. Next set up to make a dozen putts, again vary the target and distance.
Garrison, MN
Senior Discount SundayThursday 18 Holes with Cart Discounted Afternoon Rate 7 Days per week After 3 pm
www.golfmillelacs.com
Check out our NEW Clubhouse & Charlies Bar & Grill
320-692-4325
5 Minutes South of Garrison on Hwy 169
5
DISCOUNT PER GOLFER ON 18 HOLE GREEN FEE WITH CART WEEKDAY OR WEEKEND
Northwood Hills Isle, MN Fiddlestix
Excellent Tradition, Food, Drinks & Events Garrison, MN
www.appeldoorns.com
Senior Discount Sunday-Thursday 18 Holes with Cart
Northwood Hills Isle, MN Fiddlestix
Discounted Twilight Rate 7 Days per week After 3 pm Enjoy Great Food & Drinks at The Stix Bar & Grill Located 3 miles South of Isle on Hwy 47
Joni Meyer, LPGA Teaching Professional Grand View, The Pines
$
www.appeldoorns.com
001259406r1
Pre-round routine
Pine Ridge Golf Club
www.golffiddlestix.com
320-676-3636 001259153r1
FREE
SMALL BUCKET OF RANGE BALLS
PLEASE CALL 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE TO MAKE RESERVATIONS
218-894-9907 • WWW.VINTAGEGOLFCLUB.COM
001259183r1
S3 Brainerd and Baxter parks May 28, 2015
Recreation Guide
Recreational opportunities abound in Crosslake BY DAN DETERMAN Staff Writer
The Crosslake parks and recreation program has plenty of recreational opportunities to get the public out and about, according to department director Jon Henke. “For a small town, you won’t find a more comprehensive recreational facility - probably in all of Minnesota, for the size of our town,� Henke said. “We try to be on the cutting edge of what’s happening.� The city’s park features baseball and softball fields, tennis courts (with lessons to be held in July) and a nine-hole disc golf course, which Henke says has been very popular with teenagers and young adults. They are currently in the process of constructing two shuffleboard courts and two bocce courts behind the community center. The department’s most popular program right now is its pickleball leagues. Pickleball - a fast-paced
sport invented in the 1960s that combines elements of tennis, badminton and pingpong - is the fastestgrowing sport in the nation. Crosslake has 30 paid pickleball memberships, costing participants $20 per year, and expects that number to grow. “People will leave for the winter time, going to Florida or Arizona, and then come back here all fired up to play pickleball,� Henke said. “That has been a good addition for us.� The parks and recreation department has the equipment for people to play the sport, as well as an indoor facility to play. They are hoping to construct an outdoor court in the future. Participants meet from 5-7 p.m. Tuesdays and 9-11 a.m. Fridays. Included in the city’s recreational program are six miles of hiking trails, which are a cooperative project between Crosslake and Crow Wing County. The trails are also
used for geocaching, a sort of scavenger hunt using GPS devices. The city also sees a lot of use from its community garden, where residents can rent a 10-foot-by-20foot plot for $25 per season to plant any vegetables they desire. All are grown organically, and any extra vegetables are donated to local food shelves. The parks department’s summer programs include basketball camps, yoga and Chautauqua presentations. “We are trying to find ways to reach out and get kids out of the house,� Henke said. “People aren’t doing things outside as much as they used to, so I think that is really important to concentrate on for the parks and rec department.� The Crosslake Community Center has expanded its hours, and is now open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
BY DAN DETERMAN Staff Writer
BY DAN DETERMAN Staff Writer
Mission Township offers plenty of recreational options for its residents. The park includes a softball field, four tennis courts and a nine-hole disc golf course. There is also a sand volleyball pit, a basketball court and horseshoe pits available for public use. The park also has a sheltered pavilion available to rent for graduation parties and other events. “We’ve even had weddings out there,� parks committee member Michael Blassey said. Pavilion rentals are free for township residents, and available for a “very nominal fee� for everyone else.
There is also four miles of trails for hiking and biking in the township. Those trails are groomed in the winter for cross-country skiing. According to Blassey, there is continuous discussion on ways to enhance the facilities in the township. The committee will hear a presentation in June regarding the addition of an outdoor archery facility. “We are very lucky,� Blassey said. “We have a township park that I think others would be envious of. It has lots of facilities and it is well-treed. Every time I meet someone there, they go, ‘I never knew this existed.’ It is sort of a little gem in the Brainerd lakes area.�
BRAINERD PARKS Bane Park • 1717 S 7th St.: 11 acres, restrooms, playground, concessions, picnic tables and grills, one Bronco baseball field, one Pony baseball field, one Miracle League field, warming house, open skating rink, hockey rink, memorial benches and trees Buffalo Hills/Lions Park • 101 Buffalo Hills Lane: 19 acres, restrooms, playground, picnic tables and grills, pavilion, two youth softball fields. Buster Dog Park • South end of Kiwanis Park: 1 acre, two separate fenced areas. Gregory Park • 424 N 5th St.: 11 acres, restrooms, two playgrounds, skating rink, warming house, five tennis courts/three with lights, one basketball court, center court, fountain, stonewalls, historic bandstand, gazebo, memorial benches and trees Gustafson Park • 9th Ave. NE and N St.: Four blocks east of Mill Park on N Street
Much of Breezy Point’s recreational attractions can be found just east of city hall, where the city’s largest park is located. The park holds the city’s baseball field, volleyball court and plenty of playground equipment. A recent addition to the playground is large musical instruments, including drums and chimes. Parks committee member Deb Simmons said the instruments have been so popular with parkgoers that the city plans to add two more sets in the near future.
BY DAN DETERMAN Staff Writer
Ideal Township’s newest public attraction is its Fire Museum, which opened in May of last year. The building has no entrance for the public. Rather, those inter-
The park also has two sheltered pavilions with electricity, grills and public restrooms. The city also maintains a small park on Breezy Point Boulevard, as well as a public beach on Pelican Lake off of Sand Beach Drive. In addition, the city’s fishing boardwalk, located on the channel of Pelican Lake along Breezy Point Drive, was recently completed and made open to the public. The city city also manages Four Seasons Trail, which is several miles of
ested can simply look through windows at the township’s retired fire equipment, including its first fire truck. They can also press buttons near the windows to activate the trucks lights and siren.
1.5 acres, four grass ballfields with backstops Hitch Wayne Park• 1201 S 7th St.: Turn east on Vine Street off of S 6th Street. 2 acres Jaycees Park • 1600 Rosewood St.: Turn east on Rosewood Street off of SE 15th Street. 14 acres, concessions, restrooms, playground, pavilion with grills, one Bronco baseball field, one Pony baseball field, memorial trees Kiwanis Park • 1101 East River Road: 37 acres, restrooms, playground, two pavilions with grills and one gazebo, fishing on the Mississippi River, fishing on Boom Lake, paved trail, canoe launch, memorial benches Lum Park • 1619 NE Washington St.: 38 acres, restrooms, playground and slide, 18 RV campsites, two large pavilions with grills, See PARKS, Page S4
paths of varying difficulty for walkers, cyclists, runners and cross-country skiers. Near Four Seasons Trail, the city is currently installing a nine-hole disc golf course, set to be completed this year, with plans to add an additional nine holes in the future already under way. “I think our walking trails are excellent, and our parks are extremely popular,� Simmons said. “I think we have a lot to offer, as far outdoor things in Breezy Point.�
Apart from the museum, the Ideal Park features a full playground, a pavilion with grills and picnic tables and public restrooms open 24 hours. The park’s baseball field also sees plenty of use in the
summer months. “It is a very nice park,� town clerk John Plein said. “It is centrally located, and people are very happy to use it.�
fun
Your One Stop for on the Water
• KAYAKS, SUPPLIES AND GEAR for sale & rent s +!9!+3 3500,)%3 !.$ '%!2 FOR SALE RENT (including sails) INCLUDING SAILS • Stand-up PADDLE BOARDS for sale & rent s 3TAND UP 0!$$,% "/!2$3 FOR SALE RENT s ")+%3 FOR RENT • BIKES for rent s &52.)452% LOCALLY MADE • FURNITURE, locally made s +!9!+3 3500,)%3 !.$ '%!2 FOR SALE RENT s 3(544,% 3%26)#% TO 0INE 2IVER AND AREA INCLUDING SAILS • SHUTTLE SERVICE to Pine River and area s 3TAND UP 0!$$,% "/!2$3 FOR SALE RENT WATERWAYS
Passion Driven Design Equals Detailed Results
JULIE GOWEN OWNER/DESIGNER
FLOOR COVERINGS WINDOW TREATMENTS
s ")+%3 FOR RENT waterways ss + !9!+3 3500,)%3 !.$ '%!2 FOR SALE RENT TO PLAN YOUR PADDLE PEDAL THIS YEAR s 'ROUP 2ATES !VAILABLE &52.)452% LOCALLY MADE INCLUDING SAILS s 3(544,% 3%26)#% TO 0INE 2IVER AND AREA ASKare NEW FLOATING PARTY PADS! sABOUT 3 TAND UP 0!$$,% "/!2$3 FOR SALE RENT azing kayaks stable,OUR durable, portable and affordable. We make them on site! WATERWAYS
next to the DQ in Crosslake
Houseboats | Pontoon Boats | Fishing Boats Personal Watercraft | Speed Boats | Kayaks | Canoes
CLOSET SYSTEMS
Plus We Offer Gas | Dock Gas | Convenience Items | Live Bait & Tackle
PHONE: 218-820-3800 CROSSLAKE, MN EMAIL: JGOWEN19@HOTMAIL.COM WWW.JAGINTERIORSOLUTIONS.COM WWW.JAGINTERIORSOLUTIONS.NET
BAIT BOX MARINA Located on the Daggett Channel on County Road 66 Crosslake 218-692-385 www.baitboxmarina.com
next to the DQ in Crosslake
PROMOTING
SAFETY ON THE WHITEFISH CHAIN SINCE 1952
For information on swimming lessons, youth boating instruction and membership, go to
218-692-3752 • CROSSLAKE
SALES & SERVICE
LLC
Safe Boating, Whitefish Chain Yacht Club
001253164r1
www.wcyc.info
Deluxe Premier pontoons with four stroke Mercury motors. Half day, daily and weekly rates available. Marine repair, Premier Pontoons, Hewitt docks & lifts, boat storage & accessories, mini storage and Yamaha snowmobile sales & services available.
001256067r1
001259110r1
xt to the DQ in Crosslake
CABINETRY • COUNTERTOPS
001259103r1
portable and affordable. WE THEM SITE! Our amazing kayaks are MAKE stable, durable, portable andON affordable. We make them on site! #ALL TO PLAN YOUR PADDLE PEDAL THIS YEAR s 'ROUP 2ATES !VAILABLE
Rentals of
001258899r1
s ")+%3 FOR RENT s &52.)452% LOCALLY MADE Our amazing kayaks are stable, durable, portable and affordable. We make them on site! s 3(544,% 3%26)#% TO 0INE 2IVER AND AREA Our amazing kayaks are stable, durable, WATERWAYS #ALL TO PLAN YOUR PADDLE PEDAL THIS YEAR s 'ROUP 2ATES !VAILABLE
WALLPAPER • FABRICS
S4
May 28, 2015
Recreation Guide
Gregory Park upgrade opens doors to adult, children tennis programs RENEE RICHARDSON
Brainerd Dispatch Associate Editor
An upgrade on two tennis courts should provide a fitness opportunity for all ages. The city of Brainerd is in the process of replacing the two northernmost tennis courts in Gregory Park. The courts are expected to open in June. They’ll be the first courts in the park and in the city designed to make young, inexperienced and older players more successful, thus encouraging them to continue an activity open to those just starting out in life and those who have already experienced a lot of it. One of the early benefits is a new nonprofit organization with the mission of promoting tennis and fitness. The group is embracing players of all skill levels with a diverse programming menu. Shannon Larson, a certified United States Professional Tennis Association instructor, has high hopes for a new venture on those freshly laid and painted courts. Her parents, Bob and Jeanne Larson of Brainerd, passed on a love of tennis. It’s been a lifetime activity for her parents. Larson was head tennis pro for Bismarck Park and Recreation in North Dakota. Tony Sailer, Brainerd parks and recreation director, helped secure U.S. Tennis Association grants and community donations for the renovation to the courts. Chipped and cracked, the courts had standing water after a rain. Decades had passed since work of any substance changed the courts for the better. But that is about to change. A fresh look This spring, Tri-City Paving of Little Falls began the transformation by removing the old pavement and replacing it with a new surface.
PARKS, From Page S3 two small shelters with grills, beach on Rice Lake, boat landing, fishing pier, disc golf course, two sand volleyball courts, memorial benches. Memorial Park/Mills Field • 1700 Mill Ave.: 28 acres, restrooms, concessions, Mills Field, one adult unlighted softball field, two adult lighted softball fields, one Bronco baseball field, soccer field, playground Mill Avenue Park • 1401 Mill Ave.: 8 acres, restrooms, one youth softball field, one adult softball field, open skating rink, two lighted hockey
The Gregory Park tennis courts in Brainerd were given a new asphalt pad recently in preparation for summer play. PHOTO BY STEVE KOHLS/BRAINERD DISPATCH
Once the surface cures for a few weeks, the courts will be painted. A new perimeter fence will be going up as well. The new courts are creating an opportunity for Larson, who returned to her hometown of Brainerd after a dozen years as a teaching pro. She saw an opportunity to create a tennis program for adults and expand opportunities for young people. The result is the Lakes Area Racquet Sports, which includes Larson along with a seven member board of directors. They started meeting last fall. This season they’ll offer drills, clinics, leagues, private and group lessons. “We are pretty flexible, if anyone has ideas they can bring it to us and we can probably make it happen,” Larson said. One of the programs was inspired by Sailer’s idea to combine music and tennis. Called Tennis in Tune, the program is planned for Thursdays to coincide with another Gregory Park summer staple, Thursday night concerts in the park.
rinks, warming house Mississippi River Landing • 1201 Evergreen Ave.: Boat landing O’Brien Park • 2424 Pine St.: 4 acres of open space Rotary Park • Northwest of Buffalo Hills Park: 38 acres of 1,400 feet of Mississippi River frontage Triangle Park • 723 Fir St.: Less than ½ acre, playground BAXTER PARKS Berrywood Park • 13199 Berrywood Drive: Basketball court, ball field, restrooms, picnic tables, parking, playground, sidewalks, tennis court, trails.
Larson said it’s like cardio tennis with fast-paced drills to music, a program where players of any skill level can share the court successfully. For those who want a workout, the tennis programs provide a way to vary a fitness routine or start one. The tennis courses will start after the work day. Monday nights are mixed doubles. Tuesdays are for beginners. All programming will be for adults to start. Larson said their goals are to complement the existing youth tennis programs by offering lessons and activities in August, a time when other summer community education courses are ending. “We want to promote everything tennis,” Larson said. In August, they’ll offer day camps and educational programming for young people. Tennis drills will be augmented with crafts and off-court board games that will help with tennis strategy. Larson said the idea is not to drill out a student’s interest in tennis but to encourage the love of the game by interspersing other activities along with court time.
Loren Thompson Park • 13015 Kingwood Drive: Turn north on Parkwood Drive or Kingwood Drive from County Road 48 Basketball court, ball field, hockey rink, kitchen facilities, restrooms, picnic shelter, picnic tables, parking, playground, sidewalks, tennis court, trails, warming house. Mississippi River Overlook Park • 6005 Oakdale Road: Canoe access, picnic tables, wood chip trails Oscar Kristofferson Park • 5672 Baxter Lions Road: Basketball court, four ball fields, batting cages, hockey rink, kitchen facili-
Programs will target high school students the first week in August, Mondays through Thursday. The programs will expand to other age groups. Larson, who has worked with community education, said she wanted to extend the time students had to play once those courses were done. Pickleball and badminton “We will also be offering pickleball and some badminton,” Larson said. Plans are to offer pickleball during the noon lunch hour. Low compression tennis balls are key to helping new tennis players master the game. “We’re just collaborating with park and rec and we are really excited about the new courts,” Larson said. For pricing, private lessons will be $40 an hour. Larson said industry standards are between $60 and $80. But lessons for two or more players will provide a mix of prices. A semi-private lesson for two will be $25 each. “We are really going to promote small coaching clinics,” Larson said. In those clinics four players will pay $15 for a session. Costs for groups of three will be $18 per session. Larson said they’ll also offer packages of six clinics. Other group lesson will include $10 for an hourand-a-half session with about 50 minutes of drills followed by coaching and then drill and play. Larson is convinced their instruction plan will have students able to rally, hit the ball back and forth across the net, during the first day of class. “I’m excited about it,” Larson said. “I think we are going to attract a lot of new people. There is a lot of enthusiasm and one of the reasons I decided to stay here and pursue this
ties, restrooms, picnic shelter, picnic pavilion, picnic tables, parking, playground, sidewalks, two tennis courts, trails, volleyball, warming house. Riverview Park • 6621 Riverwood Road: Turn south on Forestview Drive off of County Road 48. Benches, canoe/kayak
FUN!
is because of the enthusiasm.” She said the organization wants to promote tennis and racquet sports, provide year-round programs services and educational opportunities for people of all playing abilities. Even when the weather ends outdoor play, Larson said Lakes Area Racquet Sports wants to connect the community around tennis, through a newsletter and events like a January party to coincide with the Australian Open. Larson said play days are popular instead of tournaments where players are guaranteed three matches as players continue to play all the way to seventh place. In addition, the group is looking forward to “create your own clinics” where a group of friends get together for a tennis session. Larson said the group picks the time and day. “We definitely have game plans and educational materials,” Larson said, adding their goal is to have recreational players for league play here, eliminating a need for Brainerd players to drive to the metro area for USTA league play. “My parents have been a big influence, a testament to it being a lifelong sport,” Larson said of tennis. She played in high school and growing up and went to communityed programs herself. She reconnected with the game while working with Minneapolis Park and Recreation. She was the tennis coordinator for ages 11-17. “I played tennis and fell in love with it again and went back to school and became a tennis pro and worked year round and indoor facility in Bismarck,” Larson said. RENEE RICHARDSON, associate editor, may be reached at 855-5852 or renee. richardson@brainerddispatch.com. Follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ Dispatchbizbuzz.
carry-in access, fishing from the bank, picnic tables, portable restrooms Southdale Park • 12599 Mountain Ash Drive: Parking, picnic tables, playground, restrooms, sidewalks, soccer fields, trails. W hipple Beach Recreational Area • 14441 Oakwood Drive: Fishing
pier, restrooms, kitchen facilities, picnic shelter, parking, picnic tables, playground, public beach (no lifeguards on duty), sidewalks, trails. The city of Baxter also has 25-30 miles of bituminous and wood chip pedestrian trails for walking, rollerblading or biking.
! n o i t i d a tr y l i m a f ur
o y t i e k Ma
Exclusive Area Dealer for
Mastercraft, Cobalt, Harris, Larson, Kawasaki and Shorestation New Equipment! Great Rates! Rent On Gull Lake Or Delivered To You! Across from Gull Lake Public Access by 7993 Interlachen Road, Co. Rd. 77 Nisswa, MN
001257286r1
CFORCE 500 HO EPS INTRODUCING MORE HORSES.
001258139r1
001255700r1
”HO”means high output. $5,999 means low input. Pound for pound you just can’t get a stronger ATV for the money. The all new 500HO engine is an engineering marvel. But there is much more. Standard equipment: 2500 lb. integrated winch, alloy wheels, digital dash and info center, heavy duty padded passenger backrest, front and rear aluminum A-arms, power jack for trailer lights, hand protectors and more. Plus you get all the handling and balanced suspension to provide many days worth of fun and exciting two-up riding.
5,999
$ Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ CCBoatWorks www.ccboatworks.com
— Features — Power Steering • Liquid Cooled EFI • Winch • Alloy Wheels MIDWEST MACHINERY CO. 7045 FOLEY ROAD BAXTER, MN 56425 (218) 829-5356
MIDWEST MACHINERY CO.
MIDWESTMACHINERYPOWERSPORTS.COM
1120 2ND STREET NW AITKIN, MN 56431 (218) 927-2140
May 28, 2015
Recreation Guide
Calendar of events Weekly Thursdays: Nisswa Farmers’ Market, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Nisswa American Legion parking lot Fridays: Pine River Market Square farmers market, 2:30-5:30 p.m., downtown, through Sept. 25 Saturdays: Farmers’ Market, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Ideal Green Market Cooperative, Ideal Corners Saturdays: Farmers’ Market, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Historic Butler Building, downtown Aitkin Thursdays, June 18-Aug. 21: Market in the Park, Pequot Lakes
Fridays, June 19-Aug. 14: Duck Races, 1:45 p.m., Pine River dam Saturdays, June 6-Sept. 5: Flea Market, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Pine River Wednesdays, June 3-Aug. 19: Nisswa Turtle Races, 2 p.m., downtown turtle track Tuesdays, June 16-Aug. 11: Big Fun Tuesdays, Crosslake Tuesdays, June 16-Aug. 18: Kids’ Fishing Contest, 11 a.m., Hackensack City Pier May 28 Fund Your Float fundraiser for new Miss Pine River parade float, 5-8
p.m., Bites Grill & Bar, Pine River 29 Pine River Garden Club plant sale, 2:30-5:30 p.m. 30 Crosslake Garden Club Plant Sale, 8:30-11:30 a.m., Crosslake Community Center shelter 30 Nisswa Garden Club plant sale 30 Plants and Potluck, 3 p.m. garden show, 6:15 p.m. potluck, Backus American Legion 30-31 Leech Lake Walleye Tournament June 3 Nisswa Turtle Race season starts, 2 p.m.,
downtown Nisswa, through Aug. 19 3-4 Be the Change Conference, Northern Lights Event Center, Walker 4 Take a Kid Fishing Day, Pine River Lions Club event 4 Evening for Education for Crosslake Community School, Moonlite Bay Restaurant, Crosslake 6 Whitefish Area Property Owners annual meeting, 8 a.m., Ideal Town Hall 6 Cherry Car Show & Craft Fair, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Trailside Park, Pequot Lakes
6
Outdoor Youth Expo, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Lakeshore Conservation Club 6 Household Electronic Recycling Day, 10 a.m.2 p.m., Carlson Hardware, Nisswa 6 Tour of the Lakes bicycle ride 10 Flea Market, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Hackensack 10-13 All-church rummage sale, UCC Church, Hackensack 11-13 ABC Sale, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday-Friday, 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, Immanuel Lutheran School, Walker 11 Habitat for Humanity
S5
benefit dinner and auction 12-13 Nisswa-stamman Scandinavian Music Festival, Nisswa 13 Sour Grapes Half & Half Marathon, Northland Arboretum, Brainerd 14 18 for CCS fundraising golf tournament, Crosswoods Golf Course, Crosslake 14 Friends of Youth Benefit Golf Tournament, Black Bear Golf Course 16 Crosslake Ideal Lions Flea Market, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., former Catholic church parking lot See CALENDAR, Page S6
S6
May 28, 2015
Recreation Guide
The lakes area offers numerous parks and beaches to spend time outdoors on spring, summer and fall days. BACKUS Rocky Dock Park,, Pine Mountain Lake: Go through town on Highway 87. The park offers a swimming beach, playground equipment, portable bathrooms. Trailside Park, Highway 87 along Paul Bunyan Trail: The park offers picnic pavilions, restrooms and parking lot, and water fountain. City Playground Park: First Avenue next to Backus Area Head Start Building. Park on First Avenue and enter through pedestrian gate. The park features playground equipment. Sawdust Pile: At the dead end of First Avenue on the lake is a swimming beach with parking space. The beach is very shallow and suited for young children. BREEZY POINT Breezy Point City Park: This park is at Breezy Point City Hall and features a softball field, playground, pavilion, basketball, volleyball and restrooms. Breezy Point Neighborhood Park: A public swimming beach on Breezy Point Boulevard and Sand Beach Drive. No lifeguard is on duty; there’s a satellite restroom. CROSSLAKE AREA Big Island on Whitefish Lake: Find primitive campsites, hiking trails and swimming beach. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Recreation Area: On County Road 66, the park offers shaded picnic area, grills, shelter, camping, canoe launch, boat launches, swimming areas, playground and fishing. Crosslake City Park: This 37-acre tract is in the South Bay area and offers a walking trail and picnic area. Parking is available, as well as a paved path paralleling County Road 66. Crosslake Recreational Park and Community Center: On Daggett Pine Road off of County Road 66, featuring a picnic shelter, playground, indoor gym and tennis courts. Uppga a r d Wi ld l i fe Management Area: Off County Road 16 in Ideal Township, this area offers hiking trails. EAST GULL LAKE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers:
barbecue stand in the parking lot area. Dog park: Located near the water tower off Pillsbury Avenue, the Babinski-Wilson Dog Park offers a fenced-in park that provides a place for dogs to run and play off their leashes. Mayo Lake Nature Preserve: This rustic 67-acre park is located near Mayo Lake in Loon Lake Township and Pequot Lakes. The preserve is three miles south and west of Pequot Lakes with Hurtig Road bordering the property on the east. The property surrounds the southern portion of Mayo Lake. PINE RIVER Pine River Dam Park: On Barclay Avenue, the park includes the Lions picnic shelter, a log pavilion, picnic tables, fishing pier and swimming beach at the dam. Liberty Park: It’s next to the Pine River American Legion Club on Highway 371 and features a playground, volleyball courts and picnic table. Forbes Park: Over the Pine River bridge and left on Highway 84, find camping spaces (no hookups) and flush toilets, picnic shelter and restrooms. The Forbes Park Building is available for rent. There’s running water and fire rings. Softball park: Find Shamp’s Field on Highway 1, east of town, featuring a concessions building, picnic table, bleachers and dugouts. CROSBY-IRONTON Crosby Memorial Park: On Serpent Lake on Second Street Southwest in Crosby, find camping, a swimming beach (some hours with lifeguard), playground, picnic pavilion, grills, band shelter, softball field, boat landing, basketball and volleyball court. Deerwood City Park: On Fourth Street, the park includes a playground and picnic tables. George H. Crosby Park: On Main Street near the library in Crosby, find a picnic area and one covered pavilion. Ironton Park: Behind Wells Fargo Bank there’s a playground. Northeast Park: On Eighth Street Northeast next to the Hallett Community Center in Crosby there’s a softball field. Yawkee Park: North of Crosby on Highway 6, this primitive park features swimming in Yawkee Pit.
From Page S5
June 16 Kids’ Fishing Contest, 11 a.m. Tuesdays through Aug. 18, City Pier, Hackensack 18 Ted & Dave of Deuces Wild Dueling Pianos, 6:30 p.m. social, 7:30 p.m. show, Cragun’s Sports Centre, fundraiser for Central Lakes College Theatre youth 18 Outdoor movie, dusk, Crosslake dam 19 Pine River-Backus Area Relay For Life, 7 p.m., PR-B High School football field/track 19-20 Nisswa Majestic Pines Art & Fine Crafts Fair, downtown Nisswa 20 Rotary Ride for Clean Water 20 Pequot Lakes Pet Parade 20 Whitefish Chain Antique and Classic Wood Boat Rendezvous, Moonlite Bay, Crosslake 20 Crosslake Lions Flea Market 20-21 Sweetheart Canoe Derby, Hackensack 25-27 Pine River Art Show, The Warehouse 25-28 Pine River Summerfest: parade June 27; 5K Fun Run, 8 a.m. June 28 25-28 Cass County Fair, Pine River fairgrounds 25-27 Lakes Jam music festival, Brainerd International Raceway 26-27 Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre, Pine River 28 Pine River Lions Club pancake breakfast, 7:30 a.m.-noon, fairgrounds July 3 Crosslake Original Craft and Flea Market, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., intersection of County Roads 3 and 103 3 Nisswa Freedom Days Festival and parade 3-4 Pequot Lakes Stars & Stripes Days 3-4 Celebrate America Weekend with fireworks July 3, Crosslake 4 Firecracker Run, 8 a.m.,
On County Road 125 (Gull Lake Dam Road), find lake camping, picnic area and pavilion, playground, fishing piers, swimming beach (no lifeguard on duty), boat launch and interpretive sites. A small fee is required. EMILY Emily City Park: On County Road 1, find picnic tables, pavilion and playground. Emily Ballpark: Go left at the stoplights in downtown Emily and find the diamond field. HACKENSACK Hackensack City Park: In downtown Hackensack, this park offers a playground, restrooms and beach on Birch Lake. Lakeside City Park: Find a fishing pier, bathrooms, playground equipment, swimming beach, boat ramp, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, fire grill and pavilion all along Birch Lake, just west of Highway 371. Ballpark: This is on Lake Avenue near the water tower and offers a portable bathroom, drinking water and dugouts. LAKE SHORE Fritz Loven Park: On Ridge Road, this park features picnic areas with grills, pavilion (can be reserved), hiking trails, trout fishing
downtown Nisswa Grandpa’s Run for the Walleye, Crosslake 4 Hackensack Fire Department BBQ, 3-9 p.m., fire hall ?4-8 Sweetheart Days, Hackensack 8 Flea Market, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Hackensack 10-12, 15-17 “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” Pequot Lakes High School theatre, Pequot Lakes Community Theatre 10-11 Lakes Area Artists Art Sale, Nisswa 11 Cruise Into Nisswa Three Lakes Car Show 11 Paul Bunyan Extreme 5K, Mount Ski Gull 11 Sweetheart Day Parade, Hackensack 11 Habitat for Humanity Yikes! Bikes! benefit bike tour 14-15 Bean Hole Days, Pequot Lakes 15 Country Sampler Picnic, Northland Arboretum, Brainerd 18 Crosslake Ideal Lions Flea Market, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., former Catholic church parking lot 18 Paddle board races, Gull Lake 18 Lower Hay Lake fireworks, dusk 22 Block Party, The Warehouse, Pine River 23 Nisswa Garden Club Festival of Tables 23 Outdoor movie, dusk, Crosslake dam 24-25 Zany Zucchini Street Festival, downtown Pine River 26 Backus Fly-In Pancake Breakfast, 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Backus Airport 26 Community concert, 2 p.m., Tornstrom Auditorium, Brainerd, Lakes Area Music Festival concert series 29 Gypsy Airs, 7 p.m., Tornstrom Auditorium, Brainerd, Lakes Area Music Festival concert series 31 Pie on Park Avenue, Pine River 31-Aug. 1 Pine River Community Garage Sale 4
stream, swingset and slide and restrooms. MERRIFIELD Merrifield Lions Park: On County Road 3, this park offers a baseball diamond, sheltered picnic area, playground and volleyball court. Pelican Beach: Pelican Beach is a shallow beach and swimming area, making it great place for little kids to swim. This sugar sand beach on the southeastern shore of Pelican Lake has restrooms and changing facilities. From Merrifield take County Road 3 north 6 miles to County Road 118; turn left (west) 1 mile; turn right (north) and follow signs. NISSWA AREA North Long Lake: On Highway 371, find swimming, a boat launch and picnic tables seven miles south of Nisswa. No lifeguard is on duty. Nisswa City Park: Next to the Nisswa Community Center, find a baseball field, playground, basketball courts, soccer field, ice rink, picnic tables, pavilions and restrooms. PEQUOT LAKES Sibley Lake Park: At the intersection of North Oak and West Sibley streets, find a picnic shelter, picnic tables, swingset, playground
August 1 Pine River Community Garage Sale 1 Crosslake Dam Run 1 Brainerd Jaycees Ribfest, Brainerd 2 Brainerd Jaycees Big Bill$ L’il Rubber Duckie Race, Brainerd 2 Symphonic Magic, 2 p.m., Tornstrom Auditorium, Brainerd, Lakes Area Music Festival concert series 4-8 Crow Wing County Fair, Brainerd fairgrounds 4 National Night Out, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Hackensack Community Center 5 Idyllic Settings, 7 p.m., Tornstrom Auditorium, Brainerd, Lakes Area Music Festival concert series 6-8 Crossake Art Club Show 8 Chokecherry Festival, Pequot Lakes 8 Dru Sjodin Purple Elephant Run, Pequot Lakes 8 Backus Corn Fest: Parade at 11 a.m.; corn on the cob feast at noon; street dance; fireworks at dusk 8 Cardboard Boat Races, Moonlite Bay, Crosslake 8-9 Gull Lake Yacht Club Fun Regatta 8-9 La Boheme, 7 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, Tornstrom Auditorium, Brainerd, Lakes Area Music Festival concert series 12 Ideal Beef Feed, Ideal Fire Department 12 Musical Translations, 7 p.m., Tornstrom Auditorium, Brainerd, Lakes Area Music Festival concert series 12 Flea Market, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Hackensack 14-15 Nisswa Crazy Days, downtown Nisswa 15 Crosslake Ideal Lions Flea Market, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., former Catholic church parking lot 15 Northwoods Art and Book Festival, Hackensack 15-16 Death & Transfiguration, 7 p.m.
PHOTO BY TRAVIS GRIMLER
equipment and a fishing pier accessed by a stairway leading down to the lake. A boat launch is on Grove Street. Trailside Park: This park in the center of town includes a new children’s playground that was installed in May on the park’s north end. The park is right along the Paul Bunyan Trail and also features a band shelter, picnic shelter, Dru’s Garden, Veterans Memorial and Paul Bunyan footprints. Trailside North Park: This mini park off County Road 112 in the Trailside Estates subdivision includes playground equipment, swings, benches, picnic table, barbecue grill, gazebo and bike racks. Bobber Park: This themed park is under the bobber water tower and includes Paul Bunyan’s ox, Babe the Blue Ox, and Paul Bunyan’s chair. Gildner Park: At the intersection of Pillsbury and South Oak streets, the park maintains a wooded and rustic character. It includes picnic tables, barbecue grill, benches and playground equipment built of wood to resemble a fort. Historic Fire Tower: Located off County Road 11 east of Pequot Lakes, follow a walking trail through the woods and climb the tower. There’s also a picnic area and
Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, Tornstrom Auditorium, Brainerd, Lakes Area Music Festival concert series 20 Outdoor movie, dusk, Crosslake dam 20-23 Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals, Brainerd International Raceway 26-30 Lakes Bluegrass Festival, Cass County Fairgrounds, Pine River 28-29 Fishing Has No Boundaries, Camp Confidence 29 Gull Lake Classic Boat Show, Bar Harbor, Lake Shore September 5 Crosslake Original Craft and Flea Market, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., intersection
of County Roads 3 and 103 5-6 Arts Off 84 Art Crawl, Pine River-Longville 6 Paddle Palooza, Nisswa Lake/Gull Lake 10 Tea at the Station, Pine River 10-13 Heritage Days, Pine River 12 Pequot Lakes Arts & Crafts Fair 12 Mounted Eagles Walkn-Roll 16 Nisswa Chamber Pretty Good Golf Tournament, noon, The Pines golf course, Grand View Lodge 19 Crosslake Ideal Lions Flea Market, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., former Catholic church parking lot 19 Nisswa Fall Festival
and Smokin’ Hot BBQ Challenge 19 Nisswa Fire Department pancake breakfast 19 Nisswa American Legion Oktoberfest 24 Nisswa Chamber fall dinner and Citizen of the Year celebration 24-26 Crosslake Days 25 Outdoor movie, dusk, Crosslake dam 25-27 Hackensack Chainsaw Event 26 International Vintage Boat Show, Bar Harbor, Lake Shore 26-27 Mounted Eagles Hoofin’ It Trail Ride
001256785r1
CALENDAR,
The Pine River Dam Park features a renovated swimming beach.
Hackensack American Legion are popular locations, and the Paul Bunyan trail passes straight through the park. The park has also been known for the various celebrations held there, including the annual Sweetheart Festival, Independence Day fireworks, Pork in the Park and the chainsaw carving and lumberjack events. Hackensack Lakeside City Park Virtually connected to the city park, the lakeside park offers what few attractions the city center does not, including access to Birch Lake, well known for its fishing. “(Most popular is) the fishing contest they have here,” Stanko said. “Every Tuesday, they have a fishing contest during the summer months when school is out. That is a
BY TRAVIS GRIMLER Staff Writer
With the removal of railroad tracks in the mid-1980s, the city of Hackensack earned prime real estate for a city park. “That’s when it became a park,” Dana Stanko, Hackensack water and sewer superintendent, said of the Hackensack City Park. The park is located conveniently near some of the city’s best offerings. Within walking distance are businesses selling cold sodas and hot pizzas. Also nearby is a library, open by appointment, and the city’s information center. The park itself features benches, a shaded pavilion and playground equipment for children. For parents, the two horseshoe pits and tennis courts across from the
big deal. They do have an odd music concert every now and again.” The lakeside park, sight of the famous statue of Lucette, Paul Bunyan’s wife, features a second pavilion, a swimming beach, grills, a fishing pier and boat ramp. The park is also the launching point for the annual summer canoe race around the lake. Hackensack Ballfields The Hackensack Ballfields are located at the foot of the city’s watertower. Complete with dugouts and fences, this field is popular with the summer softball league. During the winter, while the field is closed, an ice hockey rink takes its place, Dan Batson and Samuel Batson, 4, come all the way from Walker to enjoy the making this a year round ath- playground in the Hackensack City Park. PHOTO BY TRAVIS GRIMLER letic location for the city.
Pine River residents take advantage of park improvements BY TRAVIS GRIMLER Staff Writer
Rocky Dock Park in Backus is a popular swimming and picnic spot.
Featuring some of the city’s most recent additions, the Pine River Dam Park is the location of popular summer events, including weekly duck races and Summerfest events. During warm weather, locals can be seen taking advantage of its many offerings. The park is especially popular for fishing, said Pine River public works director Mike Hansen. In addition to a fruitful fishing pier on the upper section of the park, there is also a boat launch area. Below the dam proves popular for anglers as well, and from May 1 into midspring, bow fishing is common in the park with some brave anglers climbing large trees overhanging the river to ambush their prey. For others, a historic stone seating area provides ample space for relaxation and sunbathing. “There are really two swimming areas at the dam,”
PHOTO BY TRAVIS GRIMLER
Backus Rocky Dock Park popular for picnics Staff Writer
Rocky Dock Park in Backus has long been a popular location for birthday picnics. The park has facilities for all needs, including a large pavilion with picnic tables and grills. In 1989, a playground was constructed using donated funds, and still stands today. For swimmers, a gradual, sandy swimming beach has been popular for years, and the lagoon and boat launch is a popular access for Pine Mountain Lake for anglers. The park also has ample parking and restrooms. Trailside Park Trailside Park is a welcoming rest stop for bikers and drivers alike. The park is located on the Paul Bunyan Trail and along Highway 87 as it passes through Backus. The park is within walking distance of the local meat locker, which also
sells refreshing beverages. For trail users, the drinking fountain and shady pavilion are popular. On the edge of the park is also a rock garden that is decorated seasonally with Christmas lights in the winter and festive flowers in the summer. The entire park is incorporated into festivities during the annual Backus Cornfest event in August. Located deeper in the city is City Playground Park, which was once a part of the Backus Elementary School property. With the sale of the school property, the playground became a public park. With swings, merry-goround and a variety of other pieces of childfriendly equipment, the park has been very popular for children from the nearby church and Head Start. A fence around the entire facility helps parents prevent children from wandering off.
PHOTO BY TRAVIS GRIMLER
Forbes Park Another historic park for the city of Pine River, Forbes Park was named after Eugene A. Forbes, a city attorney around the turn of the century. The Forbes family donated the land for this park, the adjacent riverfront property and some Dam Park property with the condition that it always remain public park property.
Hansen said. “The new one was installed by the Dam Park Renovation Task Force. We have the restrooms and a nice big cement seating area that the Works Progress Administration built quite a while ago. We have the log pavilion that the Lions Club had built with the fishing pier. Across River Street is a playground for kids.”
See PINE RIVER Page S8 001256734r1
BY TRAVIS GRIMLER
Pine River Mayor Jim Sabas and Greater Pine River Area Healthy Green Communities Partnership organizer Quinn Swanson cut a ribbon signifying the completion of the swimming beach at the Pine River Dam and the end of the Healthy Green Communities Partnership Task Force.
33754 Charles Ave.
Jenkins, MN
218-568-5299
crowwingcycleworks.com
SATURDAY JULY 11, 2015
001229380r1
THERE’S ONLY ONE WAYBikeTO Sports & Recreation Shop
Over 250 Models to ch oose from!
Bike Rentals
Right on the Paul Bunyan Trail and Highway 371 3 Miles North of Pequot Lakes
• 20 CHALLENGING OBSTACLES • PRE-REGISTER ONLINE AND GET A FREE T-SHIRT • CRAZY TEAM NAMES AND COSTUMES ENCOURAGED • AGES 10 AND UP
REC LITE
Sales & Service
Huge Inven tory with
LOWEST PRICES IN THE COUNTRY
RECREATION
RECREC LITELITE
THERE’S ONLY ONE WAY TO REC LITE
TOW SPORTS
RE
RECREATION
SEA-DOO:FOR FOR EVERYONE WHOWHO SEA-DOO: SEA-DOO: FOR EVERYONE EVERYONE WHO DREAMS OF FUN ON THE WATER. DREAMS DREAMSOFOFFUN FUNON ONTHE THEWATER. WATER.
TOW SPORTS
TOW
Say hello to the NEW Sea-Doo Spark, our latest watercraft. It is easy to own, easy to tow – thanks to its light weight and compact size, and is an absolute blast to ride. Plus, it comes in a variety colorsNEW and customization options, you can flashwatercraft. some personality and make ittoyour own.easy hello Say hello to the toofNEW the Sea-Doo Sea-Doo Spark, Spark, oursolatest our latest watercraft. It is Iteasy is easy to own, own, easy to tow to – tow ®
™
Say – LUXURY PERFORMANCE thanks thanks to Ititsjoins tolight itsthelight weight weight and compact compact size,size, andaffordability, and is anisabsolute anpeace absolute blast to to most ride. Plus,Plus, it comes it comes in a in a industry’s bestand lineup to deliver fun, ofblast mind andride. the technologically advanced watercraft on theso market. variety variety of colors of colors and and customization customization options, options, you so can you flcan ashflsome ash some personality personality and and makemake it your it your own.own. ®
®
™
™
Find out more at sea-doo.com or visit us today.
It joins It joins the industry’s the industry’s bestbest lineup lineup to deliver to deliver fun, fun, affordability, affordability, peace peace of mind of mind and and the most the most technologically technologically advanced advanced watercraft watercraft on the on market. the market.Get the NEW SEA-DOO SPARK Call Mike Nelson Rental DealerFor Imprint Watercraft starting FindFind out more out more at sea-doo.com at sea-doo.com or visit or visit us today. us today. at $ Goes Here
LUXURY
INTRODUCING RiDE ™ BY YAMAHA. THE WORLD’S FIRST DUAL THROTTLE LUXURY LUXURY HANDLEBAR CONTROL Dealer Imprint SYSTEM.
4,999
Get Get the the
NEW NEW SEA-DOO SEA-DOO SPARK SPARK startingstarting at
www.BrothersMotorSports.com
sea-doo.com ©2015 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ™, ® and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier 5 ©2014 Recreational Products or its affiliates. Products are distributed in the USA by BRP US Inc. Always ride safely and responsibly. Not all riding conditions are appropriate for inexperienced or beginner riders. 2107404
4,999 4,999 at
PERF PE
Goes Here
8194 Fairview Rd. Baxter, MN 56425
218.829.6656 $ $
PERFORMANCE
001256130r1
9
Hackensack City Park conveniently located
001256128r1
n.
S7
May 28, 2015
Recreation Guide
8194 Fairview Rd. Baxter, MN 56425
218.829.6656 www.BrothersMotorSports.com
Dealer Dealer Imprint Imprint
yamahawaverunners.com GoesGoes Here Here
sea-doo.com ©2014 Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA. Follow instructional materials and obey all laws. Ride responsibly, wearing protective apparel. ® Always ride within your distance maneuvers, and respect others around you. Don’t drink and ride. ©2014 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.capabilities, (BRP). All rightsallowing reserved. ™,time andand the BRP logo are for trademarks of Bombardier MORE INFORMATION, OUR WEBSITE AT YAMAHAWAVERUNNERS.COM OR CALL 1.800.88.YAMAHA Recreational Products or itsFOR affiliates. Products are distributed inVISIT the USA by BRP US Inc. Always ride safely and responsibly. Not all riding conditions are appropriate for inexperienced or beginner riders. 2107404
INTRODUCING RiDE BY YAMAHA. THE WORLD’S FIRST DUAL THROTTLE HANDLEBAR CONTROL SYSTEM. sea-doo.com sea-doo.com
©2014 Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA. Follow™instructional materials and obey all laws. Ride responsibly, wearing protective apparel. Always ride within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvers, and respect others around you. Don’t drink and ride. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT YAMAHAWAVERUNNERS.COM OR CALL 1.800.88.YAMAHA
™
S8
May 28, 2015
BY NANCY VOGT Editor
Nisswa City Park, next to the Nisswa Community Center, off Main Street, is a hub of activity for youth and adults alike. The colorful playground has long been a gathering spot for children and parents, as is the nearby ice rink and warming house in winter. The park also has baseball and softball fields, basketball courts and soccer fields. There are picnic tables, pavilions and restrooms. The city’s newest park Nisswa Lake Park &
Recreation Guide
Recreational Area - is a work in progress. Located on 2.3 acres off Hazelwood Drive on Nisswa Lake, the pedestrian tunnel under Highway 371 was built to connect downtown Nisswa to this park. Proposed park amenities include biking and/or walking trails, interpretive signage, observation areas, a gazebo or other gathering spots, restroom facilities, benches, a pier, a swimming area and boat docking facilities. Detailed design plans continue to be worked on.
Dane Pearson, left, 4, New London, and Paul LeMieur, 2, Little Falls, play on the playground equipment at Nisswa City Park. PHOTO BY NANCY VOGT
When there are no festivities, the lower section of the Dam Park in Pine River is a quiet place to fish. Here, Gary Onell has convenient seclusion as he wets his line in the river.
Two large trees overhanging the Pine River serve as perfect perches for those who bowfish.
PHOTO BY TRAVIS GRIMLER
PHOTO BY TRAVIS GRIMLER
PINE RIVER, From Page S7 Forbes Park has been the focus of many updates in recent years, including installation of dedicated pay camping spaces. The nightly $5 fees have helped to keep the park in clean working condition and prevented campers from moving in for the summer and leaving trash throughout. “When people left, they left a lot of garbage behind, including queen-sized mattresses,” Hansen said. With the addition of specific camping locations, the park is now provided with a stock of free firewood to keep campers from damaging the trees and brush that give the park an intimate feel. Also available for daytime rent is the historic Boy Scouts building, constructed by the Works Progress Administration with split rock masonry and vintage forged hinges. The inside includes seating, tables and electricity for small gatherings. Bathrooms with accommodations to meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements are also located in the campgrounds. The latest camp updates have increased use of the park. “The Forbes Park seems to be getting more popular. We are getting more campers there,”
Hansen said. In addition, the park is the site of various public activities, including the annual Hobo Stew set up during Heritage Days, as well as the location of a historical rendezvous event each summer. Liberty Park Since its 2004 construction on the site of a little used mini golf course, Liberty Park, next to the Pine River American Legion, features a playground adjacent to the city’s Dairy Queen. It has been a paradise for children in the summer. Facilities feature sandboxes, slides, a sand volleyball court, picnic table and other playground equipment within a fenced in facility to keep young children from wandering onto the nearby streets. Shamps Ballfield Located outside of Pine River on Highway 1, Shamps Ballfield is a popular site for summer softball leagues and high school ball practices alike. The facility of two fields leaves ample room for multiple teams to compete at once, with stands near each field. During some games, a concessions stand provides the “peanuts and Crackerjacks” for adoring fans of the old ballgame. Picnic tables offer yet another opportunity for families to get together at the ballfield.
Uncompromised Quality - Exceptional Value Since 1989
Models From 14’ - 26’
Save BIG $$$$ Deep Discounts | Extended Warranties Junctions Hwys 18 & 25, SE Brainerd, MN 218-828-4728 OR Toll Free: 800-450-7669 WWW.BRAINERDSPORTS.NET
DEALER
Where You Get The Best Deal Everytime — TRADES WELCOME —
001256960r1
EURASIAN WATERMILFOIL IS BAD NEWS! EURASIAN WATERMILFOIL usually extends 3 to 10 feet, but can reach as much as 33 feet in length! The stems are reddish-brown to whitish-pink. Eurasian watermilfoil leaves have 14 or more leaf segments on each side of the leaf axis. It is an aquatic invasive species and a serious ecological and financial threat: • Invades lakes, rivers; thrives in areas subjected to natural and man-made disturbance. • Can form large, floating mats of vegetation on the surface of water bodies. • Prevents light penetration needed to support native aquatic plants. • Impedes water traffic. • Winter-hardy, able to overwinter in frozen lakes and ponds.
• Reduces property value; is costly to remove and control.
Crosby & Baxter Clinic Appointments: 888-420-2778 Crosby & Baxter Clinic Appointments: 888-420-2778 Longville Clinic Appointments: 218-363-3300 Longville Clinic Appointments: 218-363-3300
JOIN WAPOA IN BATTLING THE SPREAD OF AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES
001258939r1
Learn More and Join WAPOA at www.WAPOA.org
001259121r1
www.cuyuamed.org www.cuyuamed.org
May 28, 2015
Recreation Guide
Echo Journal•Brainerd Dispatch; May 21, 2015
S9
Savor Our Flavors
Page K9
Leech Lake
28. Pestello's/Backus 36. Spirits of Nisswa State Hwy. NW 371 23930 Smiley Rd. 19.87Hwy Liquor 1. A Pine Backus, MN 56435 Nisswa, MN 56468 Locker 33039 Old Hwy 371 218.947.3427 695 NW State218.963.7488 Hwy 371 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472
64
38 371 12 4
Walker
7
Backus, MN 564335
218.568.8353
Leech Lake
29. Pestello's/Outing 218.947.329037. Tast y Pizza 448 Hwy. 6 North 2. American Legion Outing, MN 28889 St Hwy 371 20. Jenkins VFW Hackensack Akeley 218.792.5055 Pequot Lakes, MN 3341 Veterans St 200 1st St S 10 56472 Jenkins, MN 56456 Hackensack, MN 56452 30. Pestello's/ 218.568.4404 218.568.8664 218.675.9191 Pequot Lakes 31094 Front St. 38. The Boulders Lodge 3. American Legion Pequot 21. Lakes,Lost MN Lake8363 Lake Land 7965 Lost Lake Rd. Pine River 56472 Trl NW Lake Shore, MN 56468 400 Front St S 218.568.9950 Walker, MN 56484 800.450.2681218.547.1006 Pine River, MN 56474 218.587.9151 31. Pine River 64 Bakery22. Lucky’s Tavern 39. The Woods 31020 Dr3 4. American Legion 215 Barclay Ave Government 19624 Co. Rd 87 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Walker Pine River, MN 56474 Merrifield, MN 56465 218.568.4177 407 Front St 218.587.2545 218.829.7507
34
5
�
��
84
2 Hackensack
55
371
47 8
84 87
28 87
136
84
371
54
Mildred
26 Pine River
33. Primetime Public House 8548 Ski Chalet Dr. Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 218.562.4455
16. Giovanni’s - PL 31089 Front Street Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 218.568.4770
145 201 112
17
107 29
Lake Shore
6
Point
371
35
127
17. Grand View Lodge 23611 Woodward Ave Nisswa, MN 56468 218.963.2234
119
35. Sherwood Forest 8789 Interlachen Rd. Nisswa, MN 56468 218.963.6155
39. The Woods 19624 Co. Rd 3 Merrifield, MN 56465 218.829.7507
RESERVATION
27
12
102
8
142
210
14 124
159 159
Brainerd
10
18
Baxter
8
23
48
144
10
24
42. Whitefish Lodge & Suites 14150 Swann Dr. 22 Crosslake, MN 56442 218.692.2246
40. Timberjack5 4443 Co Rd 168 25 21 371Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 144 218.568.6070 44 121 41. Ultimate Liquors 131 200 Front Street Pine River, MN 256474 121 218.587.3166
Garrison 26
23 43. Von Hanson’s 15811 Audobon Way Baxter, MN 56425 138 218.822.2887 2
5
138 2
Fort Ripley 139
50
115
Randall
37. Tasty Pizza North 28889 St Hwy 371 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 218.568.4404
Car Wash Snacks • Food Bait • Kerosene On-Off Road Diesel
18. Hungry Loon Café 4464 Main St Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 218.568.8373
218-587-4700
001256915r1
HWY. 371 • PINE RIVER
One block south of the stoplights 001256283r1
Monday-Saturday 6am-10pm • Sunday 7am - 10pm
Stop in to try our famous
Blueberry Pancakes served til 11 am
t n r a u a s t Re -
Hours 6:30am-10:00pm
FAMILY RESTAURANT
218-568-8353
BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER
001257099r1
A PINE
Highway 371 & County Road 16 in Jenkins — 2 miles North of Pequot Lakes
SEE FULL MENU AT WWW.APINEPLAZA.COM
• SEE FULL MENU AT WWW.APINEPLAZA.COM • SEE FULL MENU AT WWW.APINEPLAZA.COM •
• SEE FULL MENU AT WWW.APINEPLAZA.COM • SEE FULL MENU AT WWW.APINEPLAZA.COM •
VON HANSON’S MEATS All your grilling needs under one roof!
The Belle will board, rain or shine!
PUBLIC BOAT CRUISES Please visit BreezyBelle.com for current cruise schedule $19 for Adults • $14 for Kids 3-12 • Free for Kids 0-2
• Tasty Brats
• Juicy Burgers
• Specialty Items 15811 Audubon Way, Baxter • 218-822-2888 • OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
001258188r1
• Hand Cut Steaks
Private Belle Cruises are also available. Enjoy a relaxing 2-hour cruise on beautiful Pelican Lake onboard the Breezy Belle, the 100-passenger paddle-wheeler at Breezy Point Resort. Purchase a Breezy Belle ticket and receive a $3 discount coupon for the Dockside Lounge or Marina II Restaurant. Reservations are required and can be made by calling the Breezy Point Resort Boat Marina at 218-562-7164 or online at breezybelle.com
Make your reservations on-line at breezybelle.com
001254802r1
SEE FULL MENU AT WWW.APINEPLAZA.COM
6
102
25
135
10
20
21
36. Spirits of Nisswa 23930 Smiley Rd. Nisswa, MN 56468 Cushing 218.963.7488
28
25
123
131
2
Riverton
49
5 37143 23 32
38. The Boulders 8363 Lake Land Trl NW Walker, MN 56484 CAMP RIPLEY CROW WING 218.547.1006 NATIONAL GUARD STATE PARK
Deerwood
128
12
77
34. Rafferty's Pizza 25457 Main St. 10 Nisswa, MN 56468 218.963.3023
Ironton
3
111
210
Crosby
Merrifield
146
Pillager
30
19
39
48
11
30
3
125
36
11
116
13
126
210
6
31
137
127
18
10
19
118
Nisswa
1477
CROW WING STATE FOREST
109
15
1
11
109
4
105
3
24
115
77
105
25
13 17 36
77
114
4
371
77
36
36
36
33 Breezy 11
11
107 34 8 21
103
11
Pequot Lakes
40 37
36
103
22 18
30
168
Motley
Emily
42 3
Crosslake
39
16
1
27
1
16
112
16
17
66
16
Ideal Corners
15
Jenkins
210
32. Prairie Bay 15115 Edgewood Drive Baxter, MN 56425 218.824.6444
15. Ernie’s On Gull 10424 Squaw Pt Rd East Gull Lake, MN 56401 218.829.3918
371
PILLSBURY STATE FOREST
1
106 15
15
31. Pine River Bakery 215 Barclay Ave Pine River, MN 56474 218.587.2545
14. Cragun’s Resort 11000 Craguns Dr Brainerd, MN 56401 800.272.4867
41 3 9
1
Manhattan Beach
134
1
15
30. Pestello's/Pequot Lakes 31094 Front St. Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 218.568.9950
13. Cottage Café 300 Barclay Ave Pine River, MN 56474 218.587.2588
1
2
1
29. Pestello's/Outing 448 Hwy. 6 Outing, MN 218.792.5055
12. Chase on the Lake 502 Cleveland Blvd. Walker, MN 56484 218.547.7777
31 13
64
64
Fifty Lakes
Swanburg
1
28. Pestello's/Backus State Hwy. 87 NW Backus, MN 56435 218.947.3427
11. Breezy Pt Resort 9252 Breezy Point Dr Breezy Point, MN 56472 800.432.3777
Outing
48
Backus
FOOT HILLS STATE FOREST
58
29
27. Pequot Lakes Super Valu 30503 Hwy 371 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 218.568.5001
10. Brauhaus Restaurant 28234 State Hwy 34 Akeley, MN 56433 218.652.2478
48
19
26. Ole & Lena’s 43. Von Hanson’s SweetForest Revenge 8. Big Axe Brewing Co. 35. Sherwood 8789 Interlachen Rd. Ave, 15811 Audobon Way 200 Barclay 25435 Main St. Nisswa, MN 56468 Baxter, MN 56425 Pine River, MN 56474 Nisswa, MN 56468 218.963.6155 218.822.2887 218.587.2438 612.239.8541 9. Bites Grill & Bar 2793 St. Hwy. 371 SW Pine River, MN 56474 218.587.2564
7 7
Walker, MN 56484 218.547.1011
23. Bay Morey’s Seafood 32. Prairie 40. Timberjack 15670Drive Edgewood 15115 Edgewood 4443 Co Dr Rd 168 #140 Pequot Lakes, MN 5. Arrowwood Lodge Baxter,Suite MN 56425 Brainerd, MN56472 56401 6967 Lake Forest Rd 218.824.6444 (800) 548-9630 Baxter, MN 56425 218.568.6070 218.822.5634 33. Primetime Public House Liquors 24. Nisswa A41.&Ultimate W 8548 Ski446 Chalet Dr. Lane 200 Front Street Lakers 6. Bar Harbor Lakes, MN MN 56468 Pine River, MN 56474 8164 Interlachen Road Pequot Nisswa, Lake Shore, MN 56468 56472 218.963.4361218.587.3166 218.562.4455 218.963.2568 42. Whitefish 25. Nisswa Legion 34. Raffert y's Pizza Lodge & Suites 25807 Main St 7. Benson’s 25457 Main St. 14150 Swann Dr. Nisswa, MN 56468 Main St, Downtown Nisswa,218-963-9946 MN 56468 Crosslake, MN 56442 Walker, MN 56484 218.963.3023 218.692.2246 218.547.1896
200
200
S10
May 28, 2015
Recreation Guide
3 GO-KART TRACKS
BATTING CAGES 18 HOLE MINI GOLF COURSE ABOVE: The fishing pier at the Hackensack Lakeside Park is one of the city’s most popular attractions, especially on Tuesdays in the summer, as they hold a weekly fishing contest there. ABOVE RIGHT: The Hackensack Baseball Fields, located at the foot of the water tower, is popular for softball teams throughout the area during the summer. In the winter, there is a hockey rink for interested locals.
PHOTOS BY TRAVIS GRIMLER
JUMP SHOT
WATER WARS
CLIMBING TOWER 17568 State Highway 371, Brainerd
BUMPER BOATS
. .. r e n r o c e h t d n u o r a t h g i r s i r e ting for? Summ ai w u o y e r what a
Enjoy the LUXURY of a Weeres Pontoon
Open: Memorial Day Weekend - Labor Day Weekend 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. 17 YEARS
WWW.POWERLODGE.COM • BRAINERD/ONAMIA • 218-822-3500
Spring & Fall weekends weather permitting
218-454-1602
www.NorthlandKartKountry.com
001256841r1
001256142r1
Stop in an check out the entire selection!